Purpose

Engineering resource is essential to support South Yorkshire’s bus franchising programme by providing independent, expert advice on vehicle acquisition, fleet specification, and maintenance strategies.

Decision

Engineering consultancy support is required to provide short-term, specialist expertise for the bus franchising fleet workstream.

Catlynn Transport Consultants bring extensive experience and proven expertise in the bus industry across both the public and private sectors.

The initial contract value approved on 08/08/2025, was valued at £46,035. A second contract value was approved on 24/11/25, valued at £37,296. A third contract value was approved on 29/12/2025 for £46,477. A fourth contract value was approved on 17/03/2026 for £38,850.

To maintain continuity and progress the fleet workstream at pace to ensure key milestones are achieved as we progress with the fleet evaluation, on-bus tech procurement and the PSQ and ITN process for the Operator Procurement, an additional £31,342 is required to extend the consultancy support to December 2026.

Spend to date: £168,658
Additional request: £31,342
Total: £200,000

Alternative options considered

• Full time permanent position
• Fixed term position
• Specialist consultancy support